Exotic Goats
Various wild and feral goat species
Where to Hunt
Texas Hill Country offers the widest variety. Spanish ibex in Spain. Feral goats in New Zealand and Australia. Various species on exotic game ranches across the U.S.
Conservation Status
Most exotic goat species available for hunting have stable or abundant populations. Feral populations often require management. Spanish ibex are thriving after conservation efforts.
Hunting Challenge
Varies by species and terrain. Ranch goats offer easier hunts. Mountain ibex provide extreme challenges with rugged terrain, high elevation, and wary animals.
Did You Know?
Catalina goats take their name from Santa Catalina Island off the California coast, where Spanish missionaries introduced them centuries ago. These feral descendants developed unique characteristics over generations of island living. Today, Texas has more exotic goat species than any other state, with populations originally established from zoo surplus animals in the 1950s.
About Exotic Goat Hunting
Exotic goat hunting encompasses a diverse array of wild, feral, and introduced goat species from around the world. From the rugged Spanish ibex in the mountains of Spain to Catalina goats on Texas game ranches, these hunts offer varying levels of challenge and accessibility for hunters of all experience levels.
Why Hunt Exotic Goats?
Exotic goats appeal to hunters for several reasons:
- Diverse Trophy Options - Horn configurations vary dramatically between species
- Year-Round Availability - Most exotic species have no closed season in Texas
- Accessible Adventures - Entry-level hunts for new hunters alongside challenging mountain pursuits
- Unique Trophies - Stand-out pieces for any collection
- Excellent Table Fare - Goat meat is prized in many cuisines worldwide
Categories of Exotic Goats
Huntable exotic goats generally fall into three categories:
Feral Goats: Domesticated goats that have returned to a wild state. Includes Catalina, Spanish goats, and various feral populations worldwide. Generally the most accessible and affordable hunts.
Wild Ibex: True wild goat species including Spanish ibex (four subspecies), Nubian ibex, Bezoar ibex, and others. These represent the pinnacle of goat hunting, often in challenging mountain terrain.
Exotic Ranch Goats: Various species maintained on game ranches, including Markhor, Persian ibex, and hybrid varieties. Offer the opportunity to hunt species otherwise requiring international travel.
Species Guide
Catalina Goat
Feral goats descended from Spanish stock introduced to Santa Catalina Island. Now widely available on Texas ranches. Highly variable coats (black, gray, brown, white, or mixed) with impressive spiraling horns.
- • Weight: 150-200 lbs (billies)
- • Horns: 25-40" with wide flare and spiral
- • Trophy Standard: 30"+ considered excellent
- • Where to Hunt: Texas Hill Country ranches
- • Cost: $1,500-3,500
Spanish Goat
Similar to Catalina goats but maintained as a distinct population. Spanish missionaries brought these to the Americas centuries ago. Variable coloration with typically slightly shorter horns than Catalinas.
- • Weight: 120-180 lbs
- • Horns: 18-34" typically
- • Trophy Standard: 28"+ is excellent
- • Where to Hunt: Texas, Tennessee game ranches
- • Cost: $1,000-2,500
Spanish Ibex (Four Subspecies)
The premier mountain goat hunting experience. Four distinct subspecies with varying horn shapes: Gredos (largest), Beceite, Southeastern, and Ronda (smallest/rarest). All hunted in Spain's mountain ranges.
- • Weight: 140-220 lbs depending on subspecies
- • Horns: Gredos 28"+, others 22-26"
- • SCI Minimums: Gredos 180", Beceite 175", SE 165", Ronda 145"
- • Where to Hunt: Various mountain ranges in Spain
- • Cost: $4,000-12,000+ per subspecies
Nubian Ibex
Native to Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Tan to gray-brown coloring with impressive sweeping horns. Available on select Texas ranches or in native range (Israel, Egypt with special permits).
- • Weight: 100-150 lbs
- • Horns: Up to 50"+ in exceptional animals
- • SCI Minimum: 90"
- • RW Minimum: 35"
- • Cost: $5,000-15,000 (ranch), more for native range
Feral Goats (International)
Wild populations established in New Zealand, Australia, Hawaii, and other locations. Often hunted in combination with other species. Highly variable in appearance depending on origin.
- • Weight: 80-150 lbs
- • Horns: Highly variable, 20-30" typical
- • Trophy Standard: No official minimums
- • Where to Hunt: New Zealand, Australia, Hawaii
- • Cost: Often included in package hunts
Other Notable Species
Additional species available on select ranches or international destinations:
- • Markhor: The "king of goats" with spectacular corkscrew horns (very limited availability)
- • Bezoar Ibex: Ancestor of domestic goats; hunted in Turkey
- • Persian Ibex: Available on Texas ranches
- • Alpine Ibex: European mountain species; limited hunting in Austria/Switzerland
- • Kri Kri (Cretan Ibex): Greek island endemic; limited hunting
Hunting Techniques
Mountain Hunting (Ibex)
True ibex hunting is mountain hunting at its finest—physically demanding and technically challenging. Hunters must be prepared for steep terrain, high altitudes, and long days.
- • Glass extensively from high vantage points at first light
- • Plan stalks carefully using terrain for concealment
- • Expect shooting distances of 200-400 yards
- • Be prepared for sudden weather changes
- • Physical conditioning is essential—no shortcuts
Ranch Hunting (Feral/Exotic)
Most accessible form of exotic goat hunting. Terrain varies from relatively flat to moderately hilly. Methods range from blind hunting to spot-and-stalk.
- • Spot-and-stalk most common method
- • Ground blinds near feeders or water effective
- • Elevated stands offer good visibility
- • Typical shot distances 50-200 yards
- • Excellent for new or youth hunters
Spot and Stalk
Effective for all goat species. Goats have excellent vision, so patience and careful movement are essential.
- • Glass thoroughly before moving
- • Use terrain and vegetation for concealment
- • Approach from above when possible—goats watch below
- • Move slowly; freeze when goats look your direction
- • Wind discipline is critical
Trophy Evaluation
Judging goat horns takes practice. Key factors vary by species:
- • Length: Primary factor for most species
- • Mass: Base circumference adds to score
- • Curl/Spiral: Full curls preferred on Catalina/Spanish goats
- • Symmetry: Even horns score better
- • Age indicators: Worn tips, heavy bases suggest mature animal
Recommended Equipment
Firearms - Ranch Hunting
- • .243 Winchester - Minimum for smaller species; excellent for youth hunters
- • .270 Winchester - Versatile all-around choice
- • 6.5 Creedmoor - Popular modern option with mild recoil
- • .308 Winchester - Proven performer; handles any goat species
Firearms - Mountain Hunting
- • .270 Winchester - Flat trajectory for long mountain shots
- • 7mm Rem Mag - Extended range capability
- • 6.5 PRC - Modern mountain rifle favorite
- • .300 Win Mag - For larger ibex at extended range
Lightweight rifles (7-8 lbs) recommended for mountain hunting
Optics
- • Binoculars - 10x42 for ranch; 10x42 or 15x56 for mountains
- • Spotting Scope - 20-60x essential for mountain hunting
- • Rifle Scope - 3-9x for ranch; 4-16x or higher for mountains
- • Rangefinder - Essential for accurate shot placement
Mountain Hunting Gear
- • Quality Boots - Mountain hunting boots with ankle support
- • Layered Clothing - Temperature varies dramatically in mountains
- • Trekking Poles - Essential for steep terrain
- • Daypack - 25-35L for daily hunting
Hunt Preparation
Physical Conditioning
Requirements vary dramatically by hunt type:
- • Ranch Hunting: Moderate fitness; ability to walk 2-5 miles over uneven terrain
- • Mountain Hunting: Excellent fitness required; train for elevation and steep terrain
- • Start cardio training 3-6 months before mountain hunts
- • Include stair climbing and hiking with a loaded pack
- • Practice shooting from field positions (sitting, kneeling, prone)
Licensing Requirements
Requirements vary by location:
- • Texas: Valid hunting license required; no closed season on exotics
- • Spain: Hunting license, insurance, gun import permits arranged by outfitter
- • New Zealand: No license required for feral goats on private land
- • Always confirm current regulations before booking
- • International hunts: allow time for permit processing
Choosing Your Hunt
Match the hunt to your experience and fitness level:
- • Beginner/Youth: Texas ranch hunt for Catalina or Spanish goat
- • Intermediate: Beceite ibex in Spain (forested, lower elevation)
- • Advanced: Gredos or Southeastern ibex (high elevation, rugged)
- • Expert: Grand Slam of Spanish Ibex (all four subspecies)
- • Consider combining goat hunts with other species for better value
What to Bring
Ranch Hunt Essentials
- • Rifle and ammunition
- • Binoculars
- • Comfortable boots
- • Hunting clothing
- • Sunscreen and hat
- • Camera
Mountain Hunt Additions
- • Spotting scope and tripod
- • Quality mountain boots
- • Layered clothing system
- • Trekking poles
- • Rain gear
- • First aid kit
Pro Tips
Start with Ranch Goats
If you're new to goat hunting, start with a Catalina or Spanish goat on a Texas ranch. You'll learn goat behavior, practice judging horns, and take home a nice trophy without the physical demands of mountain hunting.
Glass From Above
Goats naturally watch for danger from below. Whenever possible, get above your quarry before beginning a stalk. This applies whether you're hunting ibex in Spain or Catalinas in Texas.
Be Honest About Fitness
Mountain ibex hunting is genuinely demanding. Don't book a Gredos hunt if you can't climb several thousand feet in a day at elevation. Discuss physical requirements frankly with your outfitter.
Take Your Time Judging
Goat horns can be tricky to judge, especially with spiraling species like Catalinas. Use your spotting scope, count curl rotations, and compare to ear length. A rushed decision often leads to regret.
Consider the Ibex Slam
If Spain appeals to you, consider pursuing all four Spanish ibex subspecies. Many outfitters offer combination packages. Each subspecies offers a different hunt experience and trophy variation.
Don't Overlook the Meat
Goat meat (cabrito/chevon) is excellent eating and prized in many cultures. Ask your outfitter about processing options. Young goats especially are tender and delicious—don't let the meat go to waste.
Respect the Terrain
Goats live in some of the most challenging terrain on earth. Don't attempt to follow where they go. Your guide will find a safer route. One slip in ibex country can have serious consequences.
Species at a Glance
Catalina Goat
Horns: 25-40" | Cost: $1,500-3,500
Spanish Goat
Horns: 18-34" | Cost: $1,000-2,500
Spanish Ibex
4 subspecies | Cost: $4,000-12,000+
Nubian Ibex
SCI: 90" min | Cost: $5,000-15,000
Feral Goats (Int'l)
Variable | Often in packages
Quick Facts
- Family Bovidae (Caprinae)
- Species Worldwide 9 wild species
- Lifespan 10-15 years
- Diet Browser/Grazer
- Texas Season Year-round
- Rut Period Oct-Dec (varies)
Related Hunts
Hunt Cost Summary
*Prices vary by outfitter and trophy quality